My 0 Point “Ice Cream”
This guilt-free frozen treat has become a game-changer for anyone looking to indulge their sweet tooth without sabotaging their health goals.
Often mistaken for a smoothie, this thick, spoonable dessert fits perfectly into a low-point lifestyle, especially for those following the Weight Watchers program.
Packed with the natural sweetness of fruit and the creaminess of Greek yogurt, it’s no wonder people are raving about how satisfying and versatile this dish can be.
Ingredients
Frozen strawberries, unsweetened
2 cups frozen strawberries (unsweetened)
1 ripe banana, frozen (this will add natural sweetness)
1/2 cup fat-free Greek yogurt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional for added flavor)
Sweetener of your choice (if desired, but keep in mind this will add points)
Instructions
Start by preparing your ingredients. Make sure your banana is fully ripe before freezing, as this will maximize the natural sweetness and reduce the need for added sweeteners.
Chop the banana into slices before freezing to make blending easier later on.
Add the frozen strawberries and banana slices to a high-powered blender or food processor.
The key here is to use frozen fruits for that classic ice cream consistency. Don’t thaw them beforehand—frozen is essential for the texture.
Add the fat-free Greek yogurt to the blender. This not only adds creaminess but also introduces a bit of protein, helping the ice cream to be more satisfying and nutritious.
If desired, add a splash of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor. This step is optional but highly recommended for a richer, more rounded taste that brings out the sweetness of the fruit.
Blend the mixture slowly, using the pulse function if needed, to ensure everything is evenly combined. Scrape down the sides of the blender occasionally to ensure all the fruit gets incorporated.
Taste the mixture. If you feel it needs a bit more sweetness, add a touch of your preferred sweetener. Be mindful that adding sweeteners may change the point value if you’re tracking.
Once everything is well blended into a thick, soft-serve-like consistency, serve it immediately for a creamy, refreshing treat. Or, transfer it to a container and freeze for 20–30 minutes if you prefer a firmer texture.
How to Make
Making this ice cream starts with selecting ripe fruits. A ripe banana not only makes the dessert naturally sweet but also blends more smoothly, ensuring a creamy finish. Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots.
Next, freeze your fruit properly. Slice your banana and wash and trim your strawberries before freezing. Lay them flat on a baking sheet if possible, so they freeze evenly and don’t clump together.
Use a high-speed blender or a food processor. These appliances are powerful enough to break down frozen fruit without adding liquid, which is essential to maintaining the thick, scoopable consistency.
Layer your ingredients in the blender strategically. Start with the yogurt at the bottom to help everything blend more easily. Add the frozen fruit on top, followed by vanilla and any optional sweetener.
Pulse the mixture first, stopping to scrape down the sides regularly. This will help ensure all ingredients are incorporated evenly without over-processing, which can turn your ice cream into a smoothie.
Be patient with the blending. It might take a few minutes, but resist the urge to add water or milk. The result is a thick, creamy dessert that’s more ice cream than slush.
Once blended to your liking, serve immediately for a soft-serve texture. If you want a firmer scoopable version, freeze it in a sealed container for a short time before serving.
Variations
Swap the strawberries for other frozen fruits like mangoes, peaches, blueberries, or cherries for new flavor profiles. Each fruit offers a different sweetness and texture, allowing endless combinations.
Mix different fruits together. Try strawberry-banana-mango for a tropical twist or blueberry-banana-peach for a summer-inspired blend. Play with your favorite combinations.
Add spices for extra depth. A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg pairs wonderfully with bananas and adds a cozy flavor to your frozen treat.
Mix in extracts beyond vanilla. Almond extract, coconut extract, or even a hint of peppermint during the holidays can create an entirely new experience.
Fold in texture after blending. Try chopped fresh strawberries, mini chocolate chips, or crushed nuts—just keep in mind that some mix-ins may add points if you’re tracking.
Turn it into a frozen parfait by layering it with granola and fresh fruit. This works especially well if you’re prepping it ahead and storing it in small jars.
For a protein boost, mix in a scoop of your favorite zero-point protein powder or an extra spoonful of Greek yogurt before blending.
Tips
Use ripe bananas for the best sweetness. The riper they are, the sweeter your ice cream will taste—without needing added sugar.
Keep fruit prepped and frozen in individual portions so you can whip up a bowl at any time with no extra effort. This is great for staying on track with your plan.
Let your frozen fruit sit at room temperature for a few minutes before blending if your blender struggles with hard ingredients. It’ll make the process smoother.
Don’t add liquid unless absolutely necessary. The goal is to keep it thick and creamy, and extra liquid turns it into a smoothie instead of soft-serve.
Serve it in a chilled bowl to keep the texture perfect longer, especially on warm days. This small trick helps prevent melting too quickly.
Clean your blender immediately after use. Frozen fruit can harden and make cleanup difficult if you wait too long.
Experiment and have fun. The best thing about this recipe is its flexibility. Don’t be afraid to try new flavors and textures until you find your perfect bowl.
Conclusion
This 0 point “ice cream” proves that healthy eating doesn’t have to mean sacrificing indulgence. With just a few simple ingredients and a blender, you can enjoy a refreshing, creamy dessert that supports your goals and satisfies your cravings.
Whether you’re following Weight Watchers or just looking for a nutritious treat, this recipe is a delicious reminder that wholesome and satisfying can absolutely go hand in hand. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making it every day, too.